Slow Cooker Quinoa Enchilada Casserole
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
6 hrs 20 mins
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Total Time
6 hrs 30 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Course
Main Course
Slow Cooker Quinoa Enchilada Casserole
Description
This recipe starts with boneless skinless chicken breasts layered in a slow cooker with rinsed quinoa, enchilada sauce, chicken broth, canned green chilies, corn, black beans, and seasonings including cumin and chili powder. As it simmers on low heat, the quinoa cooks thoroughly, absorbing the savory, mildly spicy sauce and combining with the vegetables. After the chicken is removed, shredded, and returned to the pot, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses melts on top, creating a creamy, cohesive casserole.
The casserole balances the hearty texture of quinoa with tender chicken pieces and the soft bite of vegetables. The cheeses add richness and mild tang. This casserole can be served garnished with fresh avocado and diced tomato for brightness and freshness.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breast boneless skinless
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed, uncooked
- 1 enchilada sauce 10-ounce can
- 1 green chilies chopped, canned
- ½ cup corn kernels frozen, canned or roasted
- ½ cup black beans drained and rinsed, canned
- 2 tablespoons cilantro fresh, chopped leaves
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- ¾ cup cheddar cheese shredded
- ¾ cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 avocado halved, seeded, peeled and diced
- 1 Roma tomato diced
Instructions
- Place chicken into a 6-qt slow cooker.
- Stir in chicken broth, quinoa, enchilada sauce, green chiles, corn, black beans, cilantro, cumin and chili powder; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until liquid is reduced.
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred, using two forks.
- Stir chicken into the slow cooker; top with cheeses. Cover and cook on low heat for an additional 10-20 minutes, or until the cheeses have melted.
- Serve immediately, garnished with avocado and tomato, if desired.